Torx bit for head removal

[Simon S]

Would rather not touch the cam trays..

The torx bit set I have is pretty standard - got them at like Autozone..
Look like these:



Can I work with these to get the head off and on?

[Dj Buttchug]

yes but the cams should come out

[Simon S]

ug. very well..

[Simon S]

just reviewed the e36/m42 manual - which doesn't mention thin torx bits or removing cam trays first - then there's "hydraulic lifter expansion"..

Why should I take the cams out ?

[Dj Buttchug]

Im not too sure if all the bolts can be reached with the cam trays and the cams still installed. I may be wrong however.

As far as lifter expansion I wouldnt worry about it. As soon as oil pressure is seen they instantly go back to normal.

[Simon S]

10-4

Thanks for sharing your input Chuggz

[lolcantturn]

Would rather not touch the cam trays..

The torx bit set I have is pretty standard - got them at like Autozone..
Look like these:



Can I work with these to get the head off and on?

I have the same set. I'm not a tool expert, but I can say that these will get the job done very well. Makes me wish that there were more torx bolts on the E30...almost ;)

[blalor]

I had the head off my M42 without removing the cams first. You shouldn't have a problem.

[Massimo]

Yeh you can remove the head without removing the cams but it requires a thin E12 torx. I have read of people modding them to fit or you can buy the tool from pelican parts.

Personally I just removed the cams and saved my self a few dollars.

[blalor]

I just used a torx socket I had in my toolbox. I think it came from AutoZone, of all places. You need to use quite a bit of caution when removing the cams…

[Simon S]

well shit guys - thanks.
Looks like this is one of those deals where you just tackle it as you tackle it.

[Ryann]

Head bolts are easily removed without pulling the cams. The sockets in your picture are impact sockets though and may have too thick a wall to fit. If so find yourself a quality chrome one and it will easily fit. I used a spanking new Mac Tools socket.

BTW, if you do pull the head bolts w/o removing cams, be aware that the head bolt washers can slide around and hide or get stuck under the cam trays so be sure to fish them out before setting the head down on it's side!

[rob_e30]

Have done this multiple times, include at the track. It can be done without removing the cams, and without the torx. I use am 11mm (I think) 3/8 drive 12 point socket. Can be torqued down too. Engine needs to be at TDC, and I recommend marking the alignment between the cam sprockets and the cams.